The BlackBerry Priv will likely receive the Android 6.0 Marshmallow update in the first quarter of 2016. The Priv is said to offer the best Android security features, but some customers find it a bit too pricey.
BlackBerry's latest flagship, the BlackBerry Priv, recently launched with Android 5.1.1 Lollipop on board instead of the expected new Android 6.0 Marshmallow, reported Hot Hardware. As per BlackBerry, the Priv will receive Android Marshmallow "sometime in the new year". The company did not mention any specific date regarding the Marshmallow update release for the Priv.
There are reports saying that BlackBerry is talking to retailers to speed up testing for the Android Marshmallow update. Some users commented that security concern is the reason for the late release of Android Marshmallow to the Priv. Since the Priv is focused on security as per Venture Capital Post, it could take some time for BlackBerry to tweak the latest Android OS update and enhance its security features.
The BlackBerry Priv launch is considered to be the pivotal point for the company. If the Priv will succeed in the market, BlackBerry will continue its smartphone business. But if it fails, the company could also see its phone manufacturing business close down. BlackBerry is betting it all on the Priv.
Yet, some customers do not consider the Priv an affordable phone. The Priv is currently priced at a premium price of $699. Given its security and privacy features, it is not surprising that it will cost more than the average smartphones. However, the expensive price tag is reported to be one of the factors affecting sales of the BlackBerry Priv.
Neurogadget reported that aside from the BlackBerry Priv, Lenovo devices will also be receiving the Android Marshmallow update. Among the devices mentioned were the Lenovo Vibe S1, Vibe P1, K3 Note, A7000, and A7000 Plus. It was stated in the report that all of the aforementioned devices except the Vibe P1 run Android 5.0 Lollipop.
It was reported that customers who bought their BlackBerry Priv phones directly from BlackBerry will automatically get the Android Marshmallow update. Priv users who purchased their phones from retailers might have to wait for the Android Marshmallow OTA update release on their devices.
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